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Great Hikes

2.9% of visitors came for hiking and backpacking

2008 NC Visitors

3% of all visitors stayed in RV campgrounds.

Natural Wonders

2.4% of visitors came to NC for nature travel and Eco touring.

Clay County

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains,
Clay County experiences four distinct and beautiful seasons
that provide breathtaking views from stunning 5,000 foot
mountain peaks and peaceful 1,500 foot valleys. Lake Chatuge
and other nearby picturesque locales provide the perfect
backdrop for exciting activities of all kinds. Plus, Clay
County is ideally located within two hours from Asheville,
North Carolina; Greenville, South Carolina; Atlanta, Georgia
and Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee.

The Old Jail was built in 1912 and was
used right up to 1972. The Museum displays items pertinent
to the history of the area through changing exhibits.
Visitors will enjoy the many pictures of life as it was in
the old days. The museum is dedicated to the memory of Dr.
John Killian, a beloved turn of the century doctor in Clay
County. The Museum houses a replica of his office and many
of his medical implements. The Old Jail is open
Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Memorial Day until
Labor Day, 21 Davis Loop, Hayesville, NC 28904, 1 block from
the square.

Outside is the Cherokee Homestead
Exhibit which officially opened in 2010 and includes a
Cherokee summer house, winter house and corn crib designed
to conform to the historical record regarding late 16th
century to 18th century Cherokee structures. It also
displays art representing elements of Cherokee heritage and
culture, including clan masks, murals and quotes in the
Cherokee language. Live demonstrations take place for
special occasions but self-guided walking tours of the
Homestead offer travelers inspiration to study and see more
regional Cherokee heritage.Cherokee Homestead is open all year.